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New 'Upscale Dining' Coming to Hollidaysburg

Brian and Jennifer Buffone announced at the monthly Hollidaysburg Borough Council meeting that they would be bringing a new business to enhance downtown Hollidaysburg. Brian said they were creating an "upscale dining experience" at 312 Allegheny Street, the former Citizens Bank. The restaurant will be called the Reserve.

The pair have brought on Chef David Noto, the Food and Beverage Director at Arnold Palmer's Country Club in Latrobe, to head the food service duties. Notto also served as the executive chef at the Omni Bedford Springs Resort for 15 years.

The Buffones will be looking to bring on 20 to 25 employees at the restaurant. They are looking to open their doors in the fall of 2023. Brian is eager to bring new life to the former Citizens Bank.

The Borough of Hollidaysburg secured the liquor license from Altoona that was held in safekeeping from the former license holder. The liquor license was transferred from the former Phoenix Restaurant in Altoona, which burned down four years ago. The motion to transfer the license was passed unanimously by the council. It was emphasized by the solicitor that liquor would not be the focal point of the business but would be used to enhance the atmosphere of dinners. The Buffones' attorney stated the total investment in this project would be upward of $1 million.

Council approved unanimously the Resolution 2023-2 for the approval of a final land development plan Holiday Hills Apartments for GRETKA Real Estate Partnership at Houndstooth Way. Seven more apartment buildings and a parking facility will be added.

The submission of a budget modification to the Commonwealth of Pa. Dept. of Community & Economic Development was unanimously approved by council. Blair County Community Development Block Grant CDBG) Coordinator Trina Illig explained that the CDBG-CV contract is set to expire on Feb. 6. To ensure the funds remain here in Blair County, the county proposes to reallocate these remaining funds to the new family shelter operated by Family Services Inc. that will serve homeless residents in Blair County. Approximately $65,000 allocated COVID funds will go to the family shelter.

Borough Manager Jim Gehret stated both grants for stormwater management had been submitted. He added that Stiffler McGraw Engineers had been out to look at what happens during flooding. With yards and basements filling up during flash flooding, water is being discharged off the properties into the street creating major water discharge and icing hazards. Councilman Brady Leahey said there were ice formations up to 6 inches thick forming in the street. Flooding continues to be a major issue in Gaysport and Bedford Street area.

During public comment sector of the meeting, Gerald Nale spoke of the Bedford Street flooding and was excited about the possibility of a retention pond.

"Water fills yards and basements so stormwater has to be pumped out onto the streets. There is nowhere else," Nale said.

The Phoenix Fire Company reported emergency calls over the past month have been minimal. They responded to a total of 40 incidents including: eight structure fires, six vehicle accidents, two chimney fires, and four medical assists.

In other business, Randy Manning was approved to fill a vacant term on the Hollidaysburg Shade Tree Commission.

Christopher Storm was appointed as a member of the Blair County Hazardous Committee.

Hiring of a previously budgeted Parking Meter Enforcement Officer was approved.

Approval was given to hire Tami Zuluaga as a part-time public safety clerk. She began Tuesday, Jan. 16.

Comedy Night 2023 will be held Friday, Feb. 24, at the U.S. Hotel to benefit the Hollidaysburg EMS. There will be a DJ, 50/50 drawing, comedians, rip tickets, cash bar and limited menu available.

 

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